Yes, you can clean a cotton pillow without causing the cotton to clump up. Here's a method you can follow:
Check the care instructions: Before proceeding with any cleaning method, check the care label on your pillow to see if there are any specific instructions from the manufacturer. If the pillow is machine washable, you can proceed with the following steps.
Pre-treat stains: If your pillow has any visible stains, it's a good idea to pre-treat them before washing. You can use a mild laundry detergent or a stain remover. Gently blot the stains with the cleaner, following the instructions on the product label.
Machine wash: Place your cotton pillow in the washing machine. It's best to wash two pillows at a time to help balance the load. Use a gentle cycle with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as they can damage the fibers.
Gentle cycle and extra rinse: Select the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine to minimize agitation. Additionally, choose an extra rinse option if available to ensure all the detergent is thoroughly rinsed out.
Dry thoroughly: After the wash cycle is complete, remove the pillows from the machine and give them a gentle squeeze to remove excess water. Then, place them in a dryer set on low heat. To prevent clumping, add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to the dryer. These will help fluff the cotton as it dries. Alternatively, you can hang the pillows outside to air dry, but this method may take longer.
Fluff and reshape: Once the pillows are completely dry, remove them from the dryer or take them indoors from the clothesline. Give them a good fluff and reshape them by manually adjusting the cotton filling. This will help distribute the filling evenly and prevent clumping.
It's important to note that not all cotton pillows are machine washable. Some may require dry cleaning or spot cleaning only, so always check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.